Kinesics

What is kinesics, how do you pronounce it, and why is it essential for effective communication? Simply translated, kinesics is body language and is pronounced ki’ni:siks. By employing appropriate body language you can connect with your listener, create a positive impression, and communicate at your best. So read on to garner tips and techniques for maximising your potential through your application of gestures, facial expressions and movement.

Words are important. The way you say them is important. How your body moves when you are speaking is VERY important. Matching the action to the word adds authenticity to your message and engages your audience on a physical level. The result? A rich sensory experience and an enhanced image that inspires trust and motivates action. Knowing about kinesics also enables you to recognise non-verbal signals in others: your understanding of those around you deepens and communication levels soar.

Reveal your attitude by including facial expressions when you communicate. If you want to demonstrate interest, for example, establish eye contact with your listener, relax your mouth and tilt your head slightly. If you want to show disapproval, lower your eye brows, tighten your lips, and drop your chin toward your chest. If you’re looking for signs of interest and understanding, watch for engaged eyes, a relaxed mouth, and heads nodding in approval.

How you stand, sit and walk all play a part in determining how people perceive you. Moving with purpose, claiming your space and breathing from your core demonstrates strength and positivity. Hanging your head, slouching, and breathing from your upper chest indicates lack of confidence. Awareness of the impact of your movements enables you to create the image you want to project.

REMEMBER: You determine how you are perceived. Be clear about the image you want to portray and utilise appropriate gestures to reflect that impression.

TECHNICAL: Research suggests that spoken language evolved from gesture. Body language is still the most reliable source for conveying attitude, feelings and emotions. Confirmed by the statistics ( 55% of a conveyed message is communicated through body language, 38% through the tone of your voice, and 7% via the words) knowledge of kinesics is an essential tool for effective communication and management.

CAUTION: An acceptable gesture in one culture may send you to the gallows in another. Before visiting foreign lands or greeting people from unfamiliar cultures, do your homework. Find out which gestures are suitable and which are not.